Implementation of a new program of gestational diabetes screening and management in Morocco: A qualitative exploration of health workers’ perceptions

Abstract

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk for a future diabetes mellitus in women and their children. As linkage between maternal health and non-communicable diseases, antenatal care plays a key role in the primary and secondary prevention of GDM associated adverse outcomes. While implementing a locally adapted GDM screening and management approach through antenatal care services at the primary level of care, we assessed its acceptability by the implementing health care providers. Methods As part of a larger implementation effectiveness study assessing a decentralized gestational diabetes screening and management approach in the prefecture of Marrakech and the rural district of Al Haouz in Morocco, we conducted four focus group discussions with 29 primary health care providers and seven in-depth interviews with national and regional key informants. Looking at the main themes screening, diagnosis, treatment and service organization, we thematically analyzed the data using a combined de- and inductive approach. Results The intervention of screening and managing women with gestational diabetes added value to existing antenatal care services but presented an additional workload for first line health care providers. Lack of knowledge about gestational diabetes in the community but also by private health care providers demanded more time for counseling. Nurses had to adapt recommendation on diet to the socio-economic context of patients. Despite the additional task, especially nurses and midwives felt motivated by their gained capacity to detect and manage gestational diabetes and the ability to take decisions on follow-up. Conclusions Detection and initial management of gestational diabetes is an acceptable strategy to extend the antenatal care service offer in Morocco and to facilitate service access for affected pregnant women. Despite its additional workload, gestational diabetes management can contribute to the professional motivation of primary level health care providers.